About

Melissa Smithson, founder of Smithson Growth Partners

Meet Melissa Smithson


I founded Smithson Growth Partners to give small and mid-size businesses access to the kind of senior business development leadership that usually only larger companies can afford.

Over a career spanning more than 20 years, I've led business development and marketing for organizations across construction, commercial real estate, healthcare, and professional services. Throughout, my focus has stayed on one thing: driving revenue growth by building genuine, lasting client relationships.

I've managed the full arc of growth — from RFPs, contract negotiations, and pipeline strategy to branding, marketing, and the day-to-day relationship-building that turns prospects into long-term clients. Along the way I've built and led teams, implemented the CRM systems and processes that keep growth organized, and helped position companies as leaders in their markets.

What sets my approach apart is that focus on relationships. Sustainable growth doesn't come from chasing one-off deals — it comes from building trust, understanding what clients truly need, and creating partnerships that last. That's the philosophy I bring to every engagement.

As a fractional partner, I become a genuine part of your team: invested in your goals, accountable for results, and flexible enough to scale my involvement up or down as your needs change.

Recognition


Community & leadership


I stay deeply connected to the business community through board and leadership roles — including serving as President of CREW Nashville (Commercial Real Estate for Women), a board member with SMPS Nashville, and active involvement with NAWIC, ULI, BOMA, and the FBI Nashville Citizens Academy Alumni Association. Those relationships are part of what I bring to every client.

My approach

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